Millions Gather for Prayers on Mount Arafat
A sea of white filled Mount Arafat on Thursday as millions of Muslim pilgrims from across the globe gathered for the emotional and spiritual climax of the annual Hajj pilgrimage.
Before the break of dawn, waves of worshippers made their way to the sacred site, where Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is believed to have delivered his final sermon more than 1,400 years ago.
The mountain and the surrounding plains quickly filled with voices whispering prayers, reciting verses from the Holy Qur’an, and shedding tears of devotion.
“I used to see this moment on TV every year and always wished I could be part of it,” said 33-year-old Ali from Pakistan. “Now I’m here. It took me three years to get a permit. I feel truly blessed.”
Pilgrims dressed in simple white garments—symbolising equality and unity—stood, sat, and knelt across the mount and the vast plains of Arafat. Many carried colourful umbrellas, seeking relief from the punishing desert sun, while others braved the heat, determined to make the most of the once-in-a-lifetime spiritual experience.
Saudi authorities, mindful of last year’s heatwave that claimed over 1,300 lives, urged pilgrims to remain in shaded areas or inside tents between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when temperatures were expected to soar past 40°C (104°F). Water mist fans and cooling stations dotted the grounds, as part of efforts to avoid another tragedy.
“This year, the government has doubled its efforts,” said Hajj Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, noting that more than 250,000 personnel have been deployed to support and safeguard pilgrims. Shaded areas have been expanded, and over 400 cooling units were installed. Thousands of medical workers remain on standby for heat-related emergencies.
For many pilgrims, reaching Arafat marks the emotional high point of their journey.
“I have dreamed of this for ten years,” said Iman Abdel Khaleq, a woman in her fifties. “As soon as I stepped foot here, I was overwhelmed. I couldn’t stop crying.”
As the sun sets, pilgrims will make their way to Muzdalifah to gather pebbles, preparing for the next ritual: the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina.
Saudi Arabia has also intensified security to prevent unregistered pilgrims from entering Mecca, citing that many heat-related deaths last year were among those without official permits or access to air-conditioned facilities. Surveillance drones, raids, and text alerts have become part of the kingdom’s high-tech efforts to enforce permit regulations.
The hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, draws millions each year and remains a major source of spiritual significance and economic income for Saudi Arabia. Despite the challenges—be it heat, cost, or logistics—pilgrims continue to arrive in faith, each with their own story, prayer, and dream fulfilled atop the sacred Mount Arafat.
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